Rusty Smith, Chairman

Rusty Smith was raised with respect for agriculture, but he didn’t grow up on a farm. His father worked for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Extension Service, and Rusty earned his bachelor of science in agronomy. After graduation, he began working in chemical sales with a regional company.

As a member of the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, Rusty wants to raise enough interest in the soybean industry to have younger farmers take his place.

Roles outside of the ASPB:

State Board Director, Arkansas Farm Bureau

Favorite soyfood: Soy fed Catfish.

Favorite non-soyfood uses: Biodiesel and plastics.

The Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board in your words: We work to maximize the return of every checkoff dollar spent; whether it’s for research or promotion, there’s no room for error. We are doing our best to reach out to the younger generations and consumers about career opportunities and the benefits of consuming soy. We’re on the right track.